Sound of Elegance Harpist

Teaching Harp

"Only practice on the days that you eat." Dr. Suzuki

Marissa has extensive experience in the art of teaching the harp. She leads the harp program at CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) of the Pittsburgh Public School system. She works with students grades 6-12 in a class environment where she gives both individual and ensemble harp instruction. She maintains a private harp-teaching studio. Her private students participate in a Harp Camp each summer where they play solo and ensemble pieces as well as participate in daily fun activities, such as crafts and swimming. She also teaches children at the Mooncrest Neighborhood Program, which is operated by the Felician Sisters of North America to revitalize the lives of those in this Moon, PA community.

Marissa was the harp instructor of the Urban Youth Harp Ensemble in Atlanta, GA for two years and at Toccoa Falls College. Marissa was also the harp-teaching assistant at the Young Artists’ Harp Seminar for four summers. She has conducted many harp ensembles, including at Beginning In The Middle, a training program for adult beginner harp students.

Currently, Marissa is accepting new students in her private studio. All students have a one-hour lesson on a weekly basis. Beginners develop the necessary music theory skills required to read music. Weekly assignments from music theory workbooks supplements areas needing improvement. Marissa emphasizes correct technique! She teaches the Salzedo method. This technique helps students stay loose and relaxed while maintaining good posture so they can express themselves with ease. Harpists avoid injuries and problems related to playing the harp. Students begin learning the Salzedo technique from their very first lesson. Students must own or rent an instrument for regular practice. Marissa suggests renting a harp from the Virginia Harp Center.